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Visit Somerset - The Jewel of the South West

Somerset really is a county that has it all. Ranked seventh in the UK for size, it is far from being the most highly populated meaning there are vast expanses of open, unspoilt spaces waiting to be explored. What’s more, it boasts plenty of beautiful buildings - in cities, villages and bustling market towns – with a rich heritage of history and legend. In fact Somerset is a county of incredible contrasts; complete with beaches, caves, moors and levels.

Some of Britain’s most iconic brands and places can be found in Somerset as names such as Cheddar, Glastonbury, Avalon, Alfred the Great and Mulberry can testify. Since the earliest times, man has found the county a comfortable and comforting place to live. Britain’s oldest complete human skeleton was found in the caves at Cheddar Gorge and one of the oldest manmade tracks in Europe, the Sweet Track, ran across the Somerset Levels.

This is the county that inspired the Romantic Poets Coleridge and Wordsworth, sustained the tales of King Arthur and his Knights and sheltered the likes of the fictional Lorna Doone. Today it continues to delight with its castles and countryside, wildlife and wetlands but it also encourages free thinking and innovation which has led to numerous county firsts including our famous festivals and carnivals.

There are so many options when it comes to places to stay with luxury hotels or shepherds’ huts and all kinds of accommodation in between – something to suit every budget. Then check out the county’s main attractions. Whether you want family fun, a Romantic break, a literary pilgrimage, an immersion in the Arts, a wildlife safari, an extreme challenge, a shopping spree or a gastronomic adventure – there are days out for everyone in this surprising county.

With one National Park, Exmoor, and three Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty including England’s first, the Quantocks, Somerset has much to offer those who enjoy the outdoor life whether on foot, horseback, cycling or dog walking. Up there with the UK’s top spots, Somerset has a number of impressive nature reserves including coastal and wetland. It also has the second longest stretch of sand in Europe.

If it is culture you are after, Somerset has its own UNESCO World Heritage site to match its globally important landscapes – the City of Bath. Best known for its Georgian architecture and Roman Baths, Bath has many more hidden treasures that reward teasing out.

Not far from Bath is England’s smallest city, Wells. What it might lack in size, Wells more than makes up for in places of interest such as its sumptuous Cathedral and Bishop’s Palace. It is just one of many delightful places waiting to welcome you.